What some research shows about studying karate

​While the evidence is scant on why people enter a dojo to study there is some emergent agreement on the psychological benefits of studying karate. Below is a general overview.

1. Improved self-esteem: 

Several studies have suggested that practicing karate can lead to improvements in self-esteem. For example, one study published in the Journal of Child and Family Studies found that children who participated in a martial arts program experienced significant increases in self-esteem over the course of the program (Yabunaka et al., 2015). Similarly, a study published in the Journal of Sports Science and Medicine found that college students who practiced karate had higher levels of self-esteem than those who did not (Sakamoto et al., 2014). 

These findings are likely due to several factors. Firstly, practicing karate requires a significant amount of hard work and dedication, and achieving new skills and goals can be highly rewarding. Secondly, martial arts training often involves positive feedback and encouragement from instructors and peers, which can help build confidence and self-esteem. 

2. Reduced anxiety and depression: 

Research has also shown that practicing karate can have a positive impact on symptoms of anxiety and depression. For example, a study published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research found that practicing karate was associated with reductions in symptoms of depression in young adults (Ojima et al., 2018). Similarly, a study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that practicing karate was associated with reductions in anxiety and stress in middle-aged women (Lee et al., 2012). 

These benefits may be due to the stress-reducing effects of physical exercise, as well as the mindfulness and relaxation techniques that are often taught in martial arts classes. In addition, the social support and sense of community that often come with martial arts training may also help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

3. Increased self-regulation and emotional control: 

Martial arts training requires a high degree of self-regulation and emotional control, as students must learn to manage their impulses and reactions in a controlled setting. Several studies have suggested that these skills can transfer to other areas of life. For example, a study published in the journal Child Development found that children who participated in a martial arts program showed improvements in self-regulation and behavioral control (Raver & Knitzer, 2002). Similarly, a study published in the Journal of Adolescence found that practicing martial arts was associated with greater emotional control in adolescents (Nelson & Riley, 2014). 

These benefits may be due to the emphasis on mental discipline and mindfulness that are often taught in martial arts classes. In addition, the physical and mental challenges of martial arts training can help students learn to manage stress and control their reactions to difficult situations.

4. Improved attention and focus: 

Studies have shown that practicing karate can improve attention, focus, and concentration, particularly in children and adolescents. For example, a study published in the Journal of Attention Disorders found that children who participated in a martial arts program showed improvements in attention and focus (Hartmann et al., 2013). Similarly, a study published in the Journal of Sports Sciences found that practicing karate was associated with improvements in attention and working memory in college students (Sakamoto et al., 2018). 

These benefits may be due to the need to pay close attention to movements and techniques, as well as the mental discipline and mindfulness that are emphasized in martial arts training. In addition, the physical activity and exercise involved in martial arts training can help improve brain function and cognitive performance.

5. Increased resilience and coping skills: 

Martial arts training can also help students develop resilience and coping skills. For example, a study published in the Journal of Applied Sport Psychology found that martial arts training was associated with